Johnny Russell Benefit Nets $80,000

The all-star benefit concert for Johnny Russell, held March 22 at the Grand Ole Opry House, raised $80,016.23 for the singer/songwriter’s mounting medical expenses. Total income from the event, according to the committee overseeing it, was $107,811.21, with expenses of $27,794.98. Additional funds have been raised through direct donations. A diabetic, Russell suffered the amputation of both legs below the knees on April 17. His nurse at Nashville’s Baptist Hospital told country.com Thursday (May 10) that the Grand Ole Opry star is recovering from his operation and is now in therapy. “He’s coming along real well,” the nurse reported. “His outlook is good, and we’re real pleased with him.” Russell has undergone no operations since the amputations, she added. Fans and friends can send their greetings to Russell at the Grand Opry House, 2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214. Checks can be made to “The Johnny Russell Fund” and mailed to JAH Inc., 2607 Crump Drive, Nashville, TN 37214.